This vegetarian baked ziti recipe combines pasta, cheese, and a variety of vegetables, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. Below are two variations of the recipe, each with its own unique twist.

Classic Vegetarian Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

• Pasta:
• 16 oz ziti (or penne)
• Sauce:
• 24 oz marinara sauce (divided)
• Cheese Mixture:
• 15 oz vegetarian ricotta cheese
• 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ¼ cup parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp oregano
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the ziti according to package directions; drain.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine hot cooked pasta, 1½ cups marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble in Baking Dish: Spoon the pasta mixture into a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil.
5. Bake: Bake for about 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to allow the top to brown slightly[1][2].

Vegetable-Packed Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

• Pasta:
• 1 lb uncooked ziti (or penne)
• Vegetable Sauce:
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 eggplant, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Two jars (24 oz each) marinara sauce
• Fresh basil and oregano to taste
• Cheese Mixture:
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 10 oz frozen spinach (thawed)
• Shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for topping

There are several excellent vegetarian alternatives to ricotta cheese that can be used in various dishes. Here are some popular options:

1. Tofu Ricotta

Description: Made from firm or silken tofu, this option is versatile and can be flavored to mimic the taste of ricotta.

• Ingredients: Firm tofu, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, olive oil, and seasonings (like garlic powder and miso).
• Use: Great for lasagna, stuffed shells, or as a spread.

2. Almond Ricotta

Description: A creamy alternative made from blanched almonds or almond flour.

• Ingredients: Almond flour, water, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and salt.
• Use: Works well in savory dishes like baked ziti or as a topping for pasta.

3. Vegan Yogurt Ricotta

Description: Combining tofu with plain vegan yogurt creates a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

• Ingredients: Firm tofu, plain unsweetened vegan yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
• Use: Ideal for both sweet and savory recipes like pasta salads or breakfast spreads14.

4. Cashew Ricotta

Description: Made from soaked cashews blended with lemon juice and nutritional yeast for a rich flavor.

• Ingredients: Soaked cashews, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt.
• Use: Perfect for creamy pasta dishes or as a dip.

5. Cottage Cheese

Description: While not vegan, low-fat cottage cheese can be a lighter alternative to ricotta for vegetarians.

• Ingredients: Cottage cheese (use small curd for a smoother texture).
• Use: Suitable for baked dishes or as a topping on salads.

These alternatives can effectively replace ricotta cheese in recipes while catering to various dietary preferences.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté zucchini, eggplant, bell pepper, onion, and garlic in olive oil until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Combine Sauce: Add marinara sauce to the skillet with vegetables; let simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with spinach and seasonings.
6. Layer Ingredients:

• In a large casserole dish, layer half of the vegetable sauce.
• Add half of the cooked pasta followed by half of the ricotta mixture and half of the shredded cheeses.
• Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.

1. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes or until bubbly[2][3].

Tips for Both Recipes

• You can prepare these dishes ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to three days before baking.
• Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese.
• For a lighter version, consider substituting some pasta with additional vegetables like roasted cauliflower or spinach[4][5].

Enjoy your delicious vegetarian baked ziti!